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Minimal packing for Italy ETA What I'm taking

Astrid

Veteran

I'm kind of stressed right now and I still haven't planned my packing...

I'm thinking of wearing my boots and taking no other shoes. Then two bottoms - I'm wondering whether I should take my black skinnies and a skirt or two skirts instead. Not sure... I think I'm going to decide on tops based on that. Definitely wearing my peacoat.

I'm also wondering what bag to take. The leather bag is bigger and has more room for camera, umbrella and little things, but the other bag is waterproof. And what about a scarf? The plaid one is rather bulky (which I normally don't mind), so I would have nowhere to put it during the day if it would be warm enough to take it off. An alternative would be the loop that arrived today in the post in #7. But I'm not perfectly sure I want to keep it, because it's a strange length. Too long to be tight around the neck and too short to wrap twice. I still have the new grey loop scarf, that would be another option. But it's definitely more lightweight than my plaid scarf. Although taking the grey loop would mean no plaid pattern mixing, which might be a good thing.

What do you think? What would you do?

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29 replies

Latest reply was from Astrid

rachylou

Veteran

I personally would do skinnies and skirt, because I like having options. I'd take the lighter of the two bags - lugging stuff gets old as it is. I'd also be ok with the one pair of boots, but I know others really like a change of shoes.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Rachylou. I guess the skinnies would change it up - although I get kind of annoyed with them after some wear because the knees bag out so much. Coupled with the boots it's not my favourite look. Of course one advantage of the pants is that I could layer under them in case it gets cold. Although it is supposed to be slightly warmer than what we have here right now. The two bags are pretty much the same when it comes to weight, they're both rahter lightweight. Oh and I know that most people prefer shoes to change, but these are by far the most comfortable shoes I have right now. I can wear them all day walking a lot without getting hurt feet. (I still have sneakers I could take, but they'd only be wearable with the jeans.)

Meredith

Veteran

Every time I go to Europe its colder than I expect so I would pack the warmest and waterproof versions of what you suggested (skinnies, heavy scarf). But, you actually live in Europe and do doubt have checked the weather, so go with your gut! Is the new scarf actually functional (does the length allow it to keep your neck warm, or is it just decorative)? I'd hate to keep something that you aren't completely happy with, but it does sound like it could fill a gap. I am absolutely in team two pairs of shoes if you have room.

Gaylene

Veteran

I'd go with the skinnies as well, unless the second skirt is significantly different from the first in weight, design, or pattern. If there is no difference in weight, I'd opt for leather bag, especially if it was more convenient to carry your daily gear. I also think the leather adds a nice contrast to your other darker items. And, just because I love it, I'd take the plaid scarf and tie it around my bag if I needed to take it off and couldn't find room in my bag. If that sounds like too much hassle, then I'd go with the grey one. In any case, I'd send back the infinity scarf if it is hard to wear--but note that I'm not a fan of infinity scarves for just the reasons you've mentioned. I think you'll be fine with one pair of boots if they fit you well and are functional. I don't tend to switch out shoes like most of the other ladies on the forum, though. Occasionally, I have tossed in a pair of lightweight shoes if I think my boots might get too warm or look odd in certain settings, but I don't think extra shoes are always a necessity.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Meredith. It should be just as warm as it is here in Berlin or warmer, certainly not colder. Although I guess depending on weather Venice might feel colder than it really is, with all that water. Oh and I'm wearing all these pieces right now, so they're fine temperatur wise. The new scarf is more decorative than functional, I think I'm going to return it. One new scarf really is enough anyway...

Thanks Gaylene. I added the other skirt, it's #9. I don't want to take the black one because the zipper seems to be almost done in. I think I'll go with the skinnies then, plus one of the skirts. The flared skirt sits more comfortably in the waist and has more ease of movement, but the other one works better with pullovers that are also wearable with the jeans. I think I'll try some combinations before I decide. And yes, I think I'll go with the leather bag. It just look nicer and it's a tad bigger. And with an umbrella I should be fine. Unfortunately tying the plaid scarf to the bag isn't really an option, because it is rather big. I don't think that would work well. I've been wearing the boots all the time since I've gotten them and they're comfortable both with pants and socks and skirts and tights. I guess I could take the sneakers just in case, but I don't think I would wear them if I have the option of wearing the boots.

UmmLila (Lisa)

Veteran

I was in Venice, Rome and Florence in March of last year. It was much warmer than I had expected, with Venice being the coldest place and not even that cold (you could sit outside to have your Aperol spritz in the later afternoon if it was sunny). My overall trip was 10 days so I had a bigger wardrobe than you were contemplating, but did not have to wear my coat and all my layers as often as I had predicted.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks, UmmLila. My experiences in the past have been mixed. I was in Italy around the same time before twice and the first time (Florence) it was really cold but dry, while the second time (Milan) was mixed with snow on the first day and two warm sunny days at the end.

Gaylene

Veteran

Actually that's my favorite trick--to put on the complete outfit I'm planning to take and then ask myself if it is practical, comfortable, and hits the right note for wherever I'm going and what I'll be doing. I also try to figure out some tweaks if the temp is warmer, or colder, than I'm anticipating.

If I want a second outfit, I do the same, trying to use pieces from Oufit A as much as possible. If I can put together two outfits that can cover 90% of my activities, I'm fine. The other 10% can be cobbled together--or in the direst circumstances, handled with a bit of cash. That last circumstance is so rare, it's not worth considering. I really think overpacking is the by-product of worrying about that 10%...

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

How long is your trip? I'd be tempted to find a way to take another pair of shoes. Even if the boots are comfy it's good on your feet not to wear the same shoes for multiple days in a row. I've done one pair of shoes only trips and for anything longer than a couple days, I've regretted it.

approprio

(website)

Veteran

Agree with rhubarbgirl, having two pairs is kinder to your shoes and your feet. I'd also be tempted to take another bottom set, or maybe a dress. You need to be fit for going out in the evening.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Gaylene - you're right, it's those 10% we're always worrying about!

Thanks Laura. It's six days... Problem is I don't really have any other shoes that work with the clothes and are more or less weather proof. I have rather worn out sneakers, I have dressy oxfords that are more for spring/indoor wear and I have booties that can't hold a candle to my boots. I've been wearing the boots constantly, here. I don't know why they should become uncomfortable over there.

Thanks approprio! I don't need to dress up and I don't think we'll be going out in the sense of "going out". It's more likely we'll buy a bottle of wine and some food in the supermarket to share in the evenings.

gradfashionista

(website)

Veteran

Following eagerly, as I'll be doing *minimal* packing for a talk to Germany, which will require both formal and tourist wear. I would bring the waterproof/lighter bag, and a scarf, rather than infinity loop, because the scarf is warmer and can cover your shoulders/head if necessary.

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

I would take another pair of shoes. Your feet need a change from the same pair and you never know what can happen.
I did 15 day trip to Portugal in late February - March with a carry on only and I had 3 pairs of shoes - and I was so happy for it. There was one day when it was pouring and my shoes got WET and did not dry for 2 days - I would be really uncomfortable if I did not have other shoes with me.
For six days I would take 2 bottoms - the ones you feel the best in and which can be worn with all tops you plan to take. Take tops for layering counting for weather variations - from hot to cold - because you never know. On that trip to Portugal we had weather from 22C down to 5C so layering was really handy.

shiny

Veteran

Following along as I'm planning out what to wear for 12 days in Iceland & London in early March....

My gut says it sounds like you'll be more apt to wear the skirts + tall boots than the skinnies, so go with that but pack a range of leggings -- fleece for colder weather, tights for warmer weather.

For just 6 days, with what sounds like not tourist-level walk all day walking, yes you may be able to get away with just the tall boots, which you've already thoroughly road tested. Perhaps just bring a second pair that works with skirts -- oxfords or ballet flats or booties -- they don't have to be all day shoes, just shoes to give you a break for a few hours if needed.

As for the scarves, I'm inclined to suggest adding a second, just to add interest, but the new one doesn't sound like "it." Perhaps you could just take one but make it a goal to purchase a second one there, as a souvenir of your trip?

As for bag... that one is tough! I'm in same boat, major dilemma. I am leaning towards take the Minkoff backpack, because it does leave room to stuff in hats/gloves/scarf/umbrella.... if I wasn't going to be outside walking around doing the touristy thing all day long, then I'd bring a smaller bag. Here's an idea: take the smaller crossover, but bring a packable lightweight tote?

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Gradfashionista! Were are you going to be in Germany? I'd be interested to hear what you end up packing (I love packing posts).

Thanks Sveta. I don't think my feet really need the change, but I guess I could pack my sneakers for the worst case scenario of getting my boots wet. Definitely going to pack my skinnies then, I can't wear the sneakers with skirts. I'll do a trial packing this evening and see how much room I have left in the bag. I think I'm going to take the skinnies in any case, I suspect it's going to be cold on the water and I can layer my wool leggings under them for the days in Venice.

Thanks Shiny. We are going to do a ton of walking, definitely on tourist level. But four out of the six days we'll be doing day trips anyway, so no chance to change shoes in between during the day. I think I'm going to take both the plaid scarf and the grey loop. I'm road testing the grey infinity scarf today and it's warmer than I thought, but of course not comparable with the plaid one. I think I'm going to wear the plaid one on the plane and the grey one goes into the bag. It is such an airy knit that it doesn't take up much room and then I'll have an alternative in case the weather warms up and I will be able to decide from day to day which one to wear. Still not sure about the bag, though. Weather forecast says rain to start with, so the leather bag might not be the best choice. The last two times I took a backpack, but they are not the most practical when it comes to keeping your stuff secure. Especially the two days in Venice - there's still Carneval and I think the city is going to be packed. I'm very tempted to go buy a new bag (as if I don't have enough already).

Astrid

Veteran

I'm on my way home and have resisted the shopping urges. What is about taking a trip that makes us feel as we need a lot of new things?

Astrid

Veteran

I solved the bag problem! I clearly have too many things, because I didn't even think of the tiny backpack I own. I just fetched it out of the deepest recesses. This one is slightly larger than the other waterproof bag, so there's still some room for a water bottle or small souvenirs. And when the camera is out it might even fit my plaid scarf. And it is more soft sided than the bag, so easier to put into my carryon. And my things will keep dry... I know I said a backpack was impractical, but this one has fairly inaccessible zippers and I can carry it in front if I need to.

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E

Veteran

I'm glad you fixed your bag problem without needing to buy a new one!

It sounds like you're sorted, so I'll just wish you a very happy trip.

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

Make sure you have some thick socks as when you're not wearing those boots, you'll be wearing socks as your relief footwear.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Eva. Yes, I'm happy about that too, especially because I would probably not use a new "gear" bag in everyday life afterwards. I think I have a good idea what to take now. I don't have time right now to document it, but I can do a write up what I ended up taking when I'm back.

Thanks Denise! Yes, I'll definitely do that. I wear thick socks with the boots anyway when I'm in tights (wool hiking socks that don't rub or pinch at all).

Astrid

Veteran

Okay, here's the overview, I had time after all... do you think I should leave something at home? I decided to take the black skirt as well, although I guess I really don't need three bottoms - it's more psychological comfort.

#3
Everything besides underwear/tights.

#4-8
The green pullover works with the plaid skirt and jeans, the blue pullover works with both skirts. The two tops and cardigan work with all bottoms (tucked with the skirts). The wool stuff can be layered under and I'm going to wear the wool tights/top with the tee as pajamas.

#9
Is what I thought I'd wear tomorrow.

I'm still thinking on the sneakers.

ETA

On second thought, I think I'm not taking the black skirt. I'll wear the jeans instead tomorrow.

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jackiec

Veteran

I'm late but I think what you've packed is perfect! Can I add that I'm jealous of your trip? Sounds fun

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Jackie! Yes, I think it's going to be a lot of fun. I'll post some pics in Off Topic when I'm back

Astrid

Veteran

And here it is in the bag. I know it looks stuffed, but there's still room. In the red bag are the sneakers. If I would leave them out there would definitely be more room, for souvenirs or whatever.

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Meredith

Veteran

Just leave the sneakers behind. You are not convinced you need them. I hear Italy makes some nice shoes if you get desperate

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Meredith, that's right.

rachylou

Veteran

Looks like a really workable travel wardrobe. I want to wear my plaid skirt now

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

You look ready to go! Looking forward to your pictures.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Rachylou and Denise! I left both the black skirt and the sneakers at home, but added another longsleeved tee (I'm wearing it right now).